By SCANA Energy

Fall in Atlanta doesn’t mean chilly weather right away. We’ll start getting cooler temperatures, and then we’ll be back to scorching…and then cool again. Make sure your home is ready for fall in the South with these simple tips from SCANA Energy.

1. Ideal Thermostat Settings

Your thermostat plays a big role in preparing for fall. Since you’ll likely be switching between heat and air conditioning, it’s great to know which temperature settings are best to save energy. When using AC, keep it set to 78°F (or as close as you can while still being comfortable). When it’s time for heat, go down to 68°F. In the winter, you can even go down to 60°F to maximize those savings.

2. Clean Your Fireplace

When it’s not cold enough to turn on the heat but your home still feels a little chilly, you’ll likely be inclined to start up the fireplace. Cleaning your chimney annually can reduce buildup that could cause fires (that is, fires you didn’t intend). All fireplaces, including those powered by natural gas, need ventilation, so making sure your chimney is clean is an important step in fireplace safety. So, get it swept and fresh. Then break out the hot cocoa and blankets to enjoy a cozy fire at home.

3. Clean Your Gutters

Get ready for leaves! Georgia is green and beautiful with trees everywhere—but that means an abundance of falling leaves come autumn. Get those gutters cleaned out before your trees lose their leaves to avoid any clogging issues or costly repairs, such as damage to your fascia or a cracked foundation.

4. Weatherstrip Your Home

In addition to the start of unpredictable temperatures, fall is also storm season in Atlanta, which means rain and warring temperature fronts. One thing many people don’t consider when prepping their homes for fall is weatherstripping. Check to make sure that all your windows and doors are completely sealed. Small leaks can let in hot air during warm weather, cool air during cool weather and water from the rain. Avoid these energy-sucking issues by ensuring your weatherstripping is up to par. An easy way to test is by using a lighter: hold one up to the seal you’re testing and if the flame flickers, you’ve got a leak. Weatherstripping your home will help you stay comfortable and save on your energy bills.

If you want more energy-saving tips from a trusted natural gas provider here in Georgia, visit SCANA Energy today.